On March 5, 2023, 84 students from Indira University, based in Pimpri Chinchwad, Maharashtra, successfully returned home after being stranded in West Asia due to ongoing hostilities between Iran and the United States. Shikha Sindhu, the Dean of the University, conveyed her relief and thankfulness, emphasizing that the institution prioritized the swift repatriation of the students. She acknowledged the challenges faced during the emotional turmoil of the situation but noted that there were no significant logistical hurdles to overcome.

Emotional Toll Acknowledged by University Officials

In her remarks, Sindhu referred to Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a “saviour” during this crisis. She stated, “The only thought running through our heads was how soon we could get them back… Dy CM Eknath Shinde became a god for us in that moment.” It was crucial for the administration to maintain constant communication with the students while they were abroad, ensuring a connection that helped alleviate some of their distress.

A returning student recounted their experience of being in West Asia for an immersion program, revealing that their timely return was suddenly jeopardized when they learned that their flights had been cancelled. Upon this development, the university administration acted quickly to extend their hotel accommodations and facilitate necessary arrangements. The student mentioned, “We were sent there for an immersion program… We were going to come back safely, and on that day, we got to know that our flights had been cancelled… Our management has extended the stay at the hotel, and everything was provided to us on time.”

Impact of Conflict on Air Travel

The 84 MBA students were stranded in Dubai after flight operations were halted due to the closure of airspace in the region following escalating tensions. The conflict in West Asia intensified recently, entering its sixth day in the aftermath of US and Israeli airstrikes on February 28, which resulted in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei among other prominent figures. In retaliation, Iranian forces have launched counter-strikes against American military installations in Gulf nations and targeted other Israeli assets across the area.

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